Travel Guide: for "Vacation Planning"

Every adventure starts with where you make your home base. Choosing a vacation rental is more than a decision about the place you’ll store your bags. It’s a bay window framing a perfect island sunset. It’s a barbecue with friends or family in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains. It’s a box of Voodoo Donuts on the counter while you get ready for a drive to Crater Lake.

Traveling with a group of friends or family members can be extremely enjoyable, but it requires some advance planning. Everyone has their own interests and energy level, and you might also have travelers of different age groups. From lodging to activities to meals, this kind of trip has a lot of moving parts to take care of, but the benefits can be enormous. Stronger friendships and family bonds can be formed, and travelers can make memories that last a lifetime.

From its sandy white beaches, pristine rainforests, and majestic mountains to the vibrant Hawaiian culture, experience natural beauty beyond words when you visit Hawaii in the Autumn. The archipelago is made up of eight main islands - every one of which is filled with adventure and luxury no matter where you turn. You've undoubtedly heard of Oahu, "The Gathering Place," its capital Honolulu, and the island of Maui. But even the lesser-known islands of Lanai, Ni’ihau, and Molokai have an inimitable charm and charisma that you must experience for yourself.

Mother Nature’s already packed the sun, the sand, and the water in the gorgeous Hawaiian islands. All she’s waiting for is you and your family! You’ve got your swimsuit out and your sandals on, but it’s easy to forget essentials when your mind’s already sipping tropical treats on the beach. Grab your packing list and check off these eight beach essentials for a week in Hawaii.

Oregon’s Willamette Valley is a lush and diverse landscape, with the Willamette River flowing the entire length of the valley and mountains bordering it on three sides. It’s a naturally beautiful, culturally vibrant area that offers plenty to see and do. And if you’re looking to spend some quality time with your partner, you’ll find plenty of options for making memories.

The holiday season is filled with joyful music and endless comfort food, so how is it possible that it still feels like the most stressful time of the year? Rather than dealing with volatile weather and panicked gift purchases, spend Christmas in the sand instead.